The FN M249S PARA rifle (FN part no. 46100172) is a semi-automatic 5.56x45mm NATO rifle from FN America‘s Military Collector Series, built as the civilian-legal version of the currently contracted FN M249 PARA used by airborne and armored infantry units for close-quarters operations. This FDE-finished PARA pairs a shortened 16.1-inch barrel with a closed-bolt, gas-piston semi-automatic action and can be field-converted back to standard M249S configuration in about 30 seconds. A rotating telescoping buttstock with a hydraulic recoil buffer smooths out recoil, while a formed steel receiver and folding steel bipod keep the platform ready to deploy. This is a rifle for collectors and shooters who want the real PARA experience without giving up semi-automatic-only reliability.

Key Specifications

• Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, matched to the PARA’s shortened gas system.
• Features a 16.1-inch barrel, shorter than the standard M249S for compact handling.
• The barrel is cold hammer-forged with a chrome-plated bore and chamber, and supports quick-change removal.
• A 1:7-inch right-hand twist rate stabilizes a wide range of 5.56 bullet weights.
• Unloaded weight is approximately 16 pounds.
• The telescoping stock adjusts the rifle from 31.5 to 37 inches overall.
• Overall height measures approximately 9.5 inches.
• Trigger pull runs 8 to 15.5 pounds.
• Can run from a 30-round detachable magazine or be belt-fed from 200-round disintegrating links.
• A top cover-integrated MIL-STD-1913 rail makes the platform ready for optics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the FN M249S PARA run belt-fed? Yes, it accepts a 30-round detachable magazine or runs belt-fed from 200-round disintegrating links.

Is the FN M249S PARA a select-fire or fully automatic firearm? No, it runs a closed-bolt, gas-piston semi-automatic action only, built as the civilian-legal version of the contracted FN M249 PARA.

Can it be converted back to a standard M249S configuration? Yes, per the manufacturer it can be field-converted back to standard configuration in about 30 seconds.

Buy the FN M249S PARA 5.56mm Semi-Auto Rifle, FDE

This FDE PARA variant brings home a genuine Military Collector Series rifle with a shortened barrel and telescoping stock built for compact handling. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping to your FFL, and add a standout to our semi-auto rifles lineup.